Top 40 supplier Cap America (asi/43792) has released its inaugural sustainability impact report, outlining its environmental, social and governance (ESG) progress last year.

Cap America (asi/43792) has released its inaugural sustainability report.

“In 2023, we embarked on an important sustainability journey,” said CEO Mark Gammon in the report’s opening letter, “and this report showcases our commitment to transparency and accountability during every stage of our journey.”

He added: “We are determined to make a positive impact at the local, national and global levels. From investing in local educational programs to reducing our carbon footprint, we strive to be a force for good in every aspect of our operations.”

Last year, the Fredericktown, MO-based headwear supplier said it took a deep dive into its energy use and completed a comprehensive audit to measure its greenhouse gas emissions. As a result of its inventory, the company upgraded to LED lighting, installed motion sensor lights and enhanced its HVAC systems, which it said have already helped cut down energy consumption.

In addition to focusing on Scope 1 and Scope 2 – those direct emissions associated with the consumption and purchase of power – Cap America said it conducted a Scope 3 screening to evaluate the indirect emissions associated with its value chain, adding that it was “the first step to understanding our overall impact to prepare for our eventual reduction strategies.”

Looking forward, the supplier said it plans to engage with its local community to help “fund and optimize renewable energy options.”

Cap America also touted its four sustainable headwear styles – knit hats made with 30% to 50% post-consumer recycled content and classic caps featuring Repreve, a rPET polyester material that uses up to 1.8 recycled plastic bottles per cap.

Giving back is also a priority for the supplier, which donated more than $300,000 last year to various causes. Highlights include a $200,000 donation to the Fredericktown Foundation to support local educational efforts – with a goal of contributing $1 million to the organization by 2030. The Madison County Salvation Army received a $20,000 donation to support disaster response, social services and food pantries. Cap America gives an annual donation of $25,000 to the Marquand Zion School District to improve educational experiences for students. And a $50,000 donation to the Madison County Recovery Allies supported the addition of certified peer specialists and recovery support specialists to help people struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues.

Cap America also has a Camp Hope giveback program, donating 5% of the proceeds from three patriotic-themed knit products to support military veterans. In 2023, the giveback program generated more than $5,700.

The full report is available here.

Founded in 1985, Cap America provides headwear through in-stock, custom overseas and USA-made knit solutions. Based on reported 2022 North American promotional products revenue of $76.8 million, Cap America ranked 23^rd on Counselor’s most recent list of the largest suppliers in the industry. The new list will be released this summer.

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